The first round of interviews for their vacant manager's job apparently is over for the Cubs, who spoke Thursday with Rays bench coach Dave Martinez.

The next step could be the most intriguing as team officials decide whether to narrow their focus to one candidate — perhaps Rick Renteria — or put their final candidates through a series of game simulations that President Theo Epstein employed in the process that resulted in the hiring of Terry Francona with the Red Sox.

The Cubs have been deliberate in their process, and 31/2 weeks remain before Epstein's self-imposed deadline to hire a manager before the start of the general managers' meetings.

Another consideration is the health of Renteria, the Padres' bench coach who recently underwent hip surgery that caused team officials to conduct their interview Monday in Southern California.

It's uncertain whether the surgery would prevent Renteria, 51, from traveling to Chicago for an interview or face-to-face negotiations, but he is considered a very strong candidate.

Renteria possesses eight seasons of managing experience in the Marlins' and Padres' organizations. But one of the biggest keys to his candidacy could be his familiarity with Cubs first baseman Anthony Rizzo, 24, whom team officials are hoping will rebound from a .233 batting average and 127 strikeouts.

Rizzo played 49 games for the Padres in 2011 when Renteria shifted to bench coach after three seasons as the Padres' first base coach.

Martinez, 49, just concluded his sixth season as the Rays' bench coach after a 16-year playing career that included stints with the Cubs and White Sox. A.J. Hinch and Manny Acta also are under consideration.

Coaching corner: Cubs coaches are under contract through Oct. 31 but are attracting interest from other teams. The new manager will select members of his staff in consultation with the front office.

Bench coach Jamie Quirk interviewed recently with the Rangers, a source said. Quirk and Rangers manager Ron Washington each started their playing careers in the Royals' farm system in the 1970s. The Diamondbacks have interest in first base coach Dave McKay, whom they pursued after the 2011 season.

The Cubs are believed to want a few bilingual coaches to aid the development of their Latin players.